Gilby Strings
Elementary string ensemble for young musicians
Gilby Strings offers young musicians a unique opportunity to refine their technical and musical skills, covering essential aspects such as bow strokes, positions, intonation, and section balance.
At Music for Canberra, we firmly believe in the transformative power of performance, instilling confidence in musicians and encouraging them to share their love for music. Members of Gilby Strings actively participate in String Stream concerts and community events, where they have the opportunity to showcase their progress.
We invite young musicians with an approximate equivalent AMEB level of Grade 3-4 to audition for Gilby Strings. Applications are open year-round and we encourage you to become part of our vibrant community.
* To ensure the best possible experience, participants are expected to complement their involvement with additional individual instrumental tuition.
** Gilby Strings rehearses during the ACT school term and will align as much as possible with the school term schedule. Weekly rehearsal times will not change.
Saturdays 9am - 11:30am
Venue: Ainslie Arts Centre, Room 6
Conductor: Anna Harrison
Fees: $330 per Term + Membership Fee
Entry into Gilby Strings is by Placement. Placements are available throughout the year after consultation.
Once you have been accepted…
who are the gilby family?
The Gilby Family - 50+ Years of Musical Devotion
For over more than five decades, the Gilby family has been a cornerstone of Canberra's music community, leaving an enduring legacy through their unwavering commitment to Music for Canberra. Originating as ardent music enthusiasts, their involvement has transformed into a profound dedication to nurturing Canberra's musical talent. The Gilby family's influence is deeply embedded in the roots of Music for Canberra, shaping its growth and success. Generations of the Gilby family have actively contributed, from instrumental performances to administrative roles, leaving an indelible mark on the organization's history. Their 50-year journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of familial dedication and passion for music, inspiring countless individuals and enriching the cultural landscape of Canberra.
Barbara Gilby, seen pictured, is a gifted violinist, who left an indelible mark on Canberra's music scene during her tenure as the first chair of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra. Her passion for music extended beyond performances as she passionately supported Music for Canberra. Barbara's enduring commitment to the Canberra Music Community led to Music for Canberra’s decision to pay special tribute by giving the first chair of Gilby Strings the esteemed title of BJ Gilby Chair, an honor reflecting Barbara’s dedication and influence that continues to resonate through generations of musicians in the Canberra community.